The Burns Lake Native Development Corporation (BLNDC) plays a vital role in supporting the economic and social advancement of Aboriginal communities in Northern British Columbia’s Lakes District. Established in 1974, BLNDC is jointly owned by six local First Nations: Ts’il Kaz Koh First Nation (Burns Lake Band), Lake Babine Nation, Skin Tyee Band, Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Nee Tahi Buhn Band, and Wet’suwet’en First Nation. These First Nations collectively represent a population of over 3,600 members.
Mission and Values
BLNDC’s mission is to empower its member First Nations to achieve their economic goals within their traditional territories. The organization aims to identify and develop economic ventures that benefit Aboriginal people in the Lakes District. BLNDC operates on core values of integrity, unity, respect, and accountability. These values guide their efforts to manage programs and funds effectively while fostering transparent communication.
Services and Programs
BLNDC offers a wide range of services aimed at economic and business development:
- Training Programs: BLNDC provides training opportunities to enhance the skills and employability of community members.
- Employment Search Assistance: The organization helps individuals find job opportunities that match their skills and interests.
- Grant Assistance and Loan Provision: BLNDC assists businesses and individuals in securing financial support through grants and loans.
- Business Plan Development: Entrepreneurs receive support in developing comprehensive business plans to guide their ventures.
- Community Economic Development Planning: BLNDC works with communities to plan and implement economic development initiatives.
- Entrepreneurial Support: The corporation offers counseling and resources for budding entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
Business Ventures and Partnerships
BLNDC is involved in several business ventures to create employment and generate revenue for its member communities:
- Burns Lake Native Logging Ltd.: This subsidiary engages in sustainable logging practices, adhering to strict safety and environmental guidelines. It has become a prime contractor for major projects, including the Coastal Gaslink Project.
- Forestry Partnerships: BLNDC co-owns Babine Forest Products and Decker Lake Forest Products with Hampton Lumber, operating two sawmills with a significant production capacity. These ventures provide employment and support the local economy.
- Medicinal Marijuana Plant: In partnership with Nations Cannabis, BLNDC is developing a local medicinal marijuana plant, reflecting its commitment to exploring new economic opportunities.
Community Engagement
BLNDC is deeply involved in community activities, offering renovated event and meeting spaces for local use. The organization showcases and sells creations by local Indigenous artists, promoting cultural heritage and supporting local artisan.
Historical Context
BLNDC was founded by representatives of the local Aboriginal communities, with a vision to create economic opportunities and improve the well-being of their people. Over the decades, BLNDC has expanded its activities from small business lending and logging to include diverse sectors such as construction, fish farming, machine shop operations, and silviculture.
For more information about the Burns Lake Native Development Corporation, you can visit them at https://blndc.ca/ .
